"Communicating while you are not necessarily 'in control'or leading, but being able to 'take control' and lead when the opportunity presents. Never really giving up until you have to. "

Yes - in aikido and in life. Learning how to take ukemi has taught me (has been teaching me) how to stay with a difficult situation, how not to give up. It's hard not to go slack when you're not winning. Staying taut and continuing to be a presence - communicating with nage (or any adversity) makes the outcome better.